Bushing explained (automotive)

Question

In general automotive use, a bush / bushing is a rubber or polyurethane cushion fitted between two metal parts.

Its job is to:

Absorb vibration
Reduce noise
Allow controlled movement
Prevent metal-to-metal contact
Keep parts aligned properly

You’ll find bushes in many parts of a car, for example:

Suspension arms
Panhard rods
Anti-roll bars
Shock absorber mounts
Gearbox mounts
Engine mounts

When bushes wear out, the car may feel loose, noisy, or unstable. Common signs are clunking sounds, vibration, wandering steering, uneven tyre wear, or sloppy handling.